Connecting Urban Native Youth Through UNITY
The Tribal Images Youth Council, based in Tucson, Arizona, exemplifies UNITY’s mission by creating a vibrant intertribal community within an urban setting. As part of the UNITY Network, this youth council not only fosters leadership among Native youth but also builds bridges across tribal lines, offering a powerful example for newly forming youth councils on how to give back to their local communities.
Creating a Space for Cultural Connection
Urban youth councils like Tribal Images address the unique challenges Native youth face in metropolitan areas, including maintaining cultural identity while living far from their ancestral homelands. The council provides a space for spiritual grounding and cultural pride by organizing culturally meaningful events like the Sunrise Ceremony. “We invited community members, teachers, and families to join us at sunrise for a traditional blessing,” shared Xochitla Zepeda, a council leader. “It was a moment of unity and reflection.”
Through events like this, the council highlights the importance of maintaining cultural traditions while living in urban areas, aligning with UNITY’s creed that spirituality and cultural pride are cornerstones of a balanced lifestyle.
Building Community Through Events
The council’s participation in Tucson High School’s Unity Fest exemplifies their commitment to fostering intertribal connections. By hosting a booth and selling traditional fry bread, they shared their culture with a diverse audience and raised funds to support their initiatives. Similarly, their lei-making project for Native graduating seniors honored both cultural traditions and individual achievements, emphasizing the council’s dedication to community celebration.
“Being part of these events allows us to share our heritage with others while supporting our fellow youth,” said Francisco Valencia, a council member. These activities demonstrate how urban youth councils can foster a sense of belonging and community in diverse settings.
Addressing Local Issues
Urban Native youth councils are crucial in addressing challenges unique to their environments. Tribal Images Youth Council advocates for cultural representation and the right to wear regalia at graduation ceremonies. This advocacy underscores UNITY’s mission to empower Native youth to address issues that matter to them and their communities.
A Model for New Youth Councils
The UNITY Youth Council Handbook outlines how youth councils are designed to address community needs while fostering leadership and organizational skills. Tribal Images exemplifies this by engaging in initiatives that connect urban Native youth to their culture, promote wellness, and create lasting community bonds.
Newly forming councils can draw inspiration from Tribal Images’ approach to community building. Youth councils can create a supportive network that empowers members and enriches their communities by hosting events, raising awareness on local issues, and fostering intertribal connections.
Inspiring Urban Native Youth
The Tribal Images Youth Council is a testament to the power of UNITY’s mission. By connecting Native youth across tribal lines and creating spaces for cultural expression, they provide a model of how urban councils can address challenges while strengthening community ties.
As Xochitla Zepeda stated, “Our council is about creating opportunities to lead, share, and grow together. Through UNITY, we’ve found a way to make a difference—not just for ourselves, but for our entire community.” Their story inspires youth councils nationwide, showcasing how Native youth can thrive, connect, and lead with purpose.
